Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Trip overview
Annapurna Base Camp Trek, in full
Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary, cost, map, permits, altitude, difficulty, best time, route details and complete trekking guide with Real Himalaya.
Your trip at a glance
- Destination
- Annapurna Region
- Duration
- 13 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Max elevation
- 4130 m
- Group size
- 2-12 people
- Activities
- Trekking
Day by day
Detailed itinerary
- 1
Arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport of Kathmandu
Namaste and welcome to Nepal! As your plane glides into the Kathmandu Valley, the city greets you with temple spires, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and the hum of devotion. You are transferred to your hotel, where the evening is yours to wander the streets of Thamel or simply rest after your long flight. Tonight, the capital’s vibrant pulse carries you into dreams of the Himalayas. Your ABC trek route awaits!
- 2
From Kathmandu, Moving towards Pokhara through Private Bus
The highway west reveals Nepal’s countryside: terraced rice paddies, gurgling rivers, and roadside villages where children wave as buses pass. The mighty Trishuli and Seti Rivers accompany you for much of the journey. By evening, you reach Pokhara, the jewel of Nepal, where the still waters of Phewa Lake reflect the snowy pyramid of Machhapuchhre. The city’s relaxed pace sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The ABC trek weather supports Autumn and Spring mostly.
- 3
Short Drive to Birethanti and Ascend to Ulleri
After a short drive(45min), your trek begins at Birethanti, a lively riverside village. The trail ascends gently through forests and farming settlements before the famed stone staircases of Ulleri rise before you. The Annapurna Base Camp trek route is steady and demanding, but is rewarded with sweeping valley views and the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar people.
- 4
Ascend towards Ghorepani from Ulleri
Today’s trail leads through enchanted forests of oak and rhododendron. In spring, the hillsides explode in red and pink blossoms, the national flower of Nepal, turning the forest into a fairytale. As you ascend higher, the air cools, and Ghorepani appears a charming mountain village perched on a ridge, framed by Himalayan peaks that glow at sunset.
- 5
Starting your day with beautiful Sunrise at Poon Hill and Descending towards Tadapani
Before dawn, you climb to the legendary Poon Hill Viewpoint (3210m), where one of the most breathtaking sunrises in the Himalayas awaits. As light spills across the horizon, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre ignite in shades of gold and crimson. After soaking in the panorama, you return to Ghorepani and descend through rhododendron forests alive with bird calls. By afternoon, you reach Tadapani, a forested ridge with close-up views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
- 6
Ascend to Sinuwa passing Tadapani route
The trail dips steeply through forests before climbing again past rivers and bamboo groves. You cross suspension bridges over the rushing Modi Khola River and pass through small settlements where mountain life thrives in simplicity. By evening, you arrive in Sinuwa, a peaceful stop where the air is fresh and crisp.
- 7
Trek to Deurali from Sinuwa
The forest thins as you ascend higher, and the valley narrows dramatically between towering cliffs. Waterfalls cascade from rocky slopes, and prayer flags flutter above the trail. As you walk deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, the mountains loom closer, their icy crowns shimmering in the sun. Deurali, surrounded by steep rock walls, feels like the threshold of the sacred Annapurna Basin.
- 8
Ascend towards Annapurna Base Camp
This is the day your dreams take shape. The trail climbs steadily to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m), where Fishtail Peak rises like a guardian. From here, the valley opens into the Annapurna Sanctuary, a vast amphitheater ringed by towering peaks. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) is an awe-inspiring moment: Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre surround you. As the sun sets, the snowy summits glow orange, and when night falls, the stars feel impossibly close.
- 9
Descend to Bamboo from Annapurna Base Camp
You bid farewell to the sanctuary of giants, retracing your steps down the valley. Descending feels gentler as the air thickens and forests return. Bamboo, nestled in a lush green setting, is the perfect resting point after your days at high altitude.
- 10
From Bamboo, Trek to Jhinu Danda
The trail descends through forests and small hamlets until you reach Jhinu Danda, famous for its natural hot springs. Here, you can bathe in warm waters beside the Modi Khola River, a soothing embrace from nature after days of trekking.
- 11
Short Hike and Drive to Pokhara
A short walk brings you to the road where your vehicle awaits. You drive back to Pokhara, returning once more to the city of lakes. By evening, the reflection of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre in Phewa Lake feels even more magical, now that you have walked among them.
- 12
Drive back to Kathmandu - Capital of Nepal
The journey back to Kathmandu winds along rivers and hills, carrying you from the quiet mountains to the lively capital. The evening is yours to enjoy a farewell dinner, shop for handicrafts, or simply savor your final night in Nepal.
- 13
Final Departure at Tribhuvan International Airport
Your Himalayan story comes to a close. You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Though you leave Nepal, the memory of golden sunrises, forest trails, and the sacred circle of the Annapurna Sanctuary will remain with you forever. The best memories of Annapurna Base Camp trek will be a story to share with your friends and family. Thank you for choosing Real Himalaya. For any queries, contact us at +977 985-1026840 www.realhimalaya.com Speak to an Expert Gokul Thapa +977-9851026840 View Dossier Online
